Criminologist Job Description Template
A criminologist is a professional who studies crime and provides expert testimony in court. They may also work with law enforcement to provide consultation on criminal cases. Criminologists typically have a background in sociology, psychology, or another social science.
Criminologist Job Responsibilities
- Conducting research on crime and criminals
- Analyzing data to identify patterns and trends in criminal behavior
- Developing theories to explain why criminals commit certain types of crimes
- Assisting law enforcement agencies in solving crimes
- testifying in court as an expert witness on criminal behavior
- Writing reports and articles on findings from criminological research
Objectives
- To conduct research into the causes, consequences and control of crime and criminal behaviour
- To develop theories of crime and criminal behaviour
- To apply theoretical knowledge to the practical field of criminology
- To work with law enforcement agencies in the prevention and detection of crime
- To contribute to public policy debates on issues related to crime and criminal justice
- To teach future generations of criminologists
Criminologist Job Skills & Qualifications Needed
- There is no one specific set of skills or qualifications needed to become a criminologist, but most criminologists have at least a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or sociology. Many also have a master's degree or higher in criminology, psychology, or another related field. Many criminologists also have experience working in the criminal justice system, either as police officers, detectives, probation officers, or other law enforcement professionals.